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The Nigerian government has urged retailers to reduce food prices after inflation fell to 24.48% in January 2025. Despite lower costs for essentials like flour and spaghetti, traders have failed to reflect the changes. Minister Abubakar Kyari called the refusal unfair and urged compliance to ease consumers' burdens.

The Nigerian government has urged retailers to lower food prices following a drop in inflation to 24.48% in January 2025. Minister of Agriculture Abubakar Kyari criticized traders for not reflecting reduced costs in essential goods like flour and pasta. He described the situation as unfair and urged compliance.

Speaking at the 2025 Wheat Farmers Green Field Day in Jigawa State, Kyari highlighted that food prices had significantly declined in major markets. He cited examples, including a drop in flour prices from ₦81,000 to below ₦60,000 per bag and a decrease in spaghetti prices from ₦20,000 to ₦15,000. Despite this, many retailers and bakers have refused to lower their prices, denying consumers much-needed relief.

The government has repeatedly engaged with industry stakeholders about rising food costs. Now that prices are decreasing, Kyari insists that traders must pass the benefits on to consumers.

While headline and food inflation fell to 24.48% and 26.08%, respectively, the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise clarified that this does not necessarily mean a uniform reduction in all goods and services. Economic factors, including supply chain issues, continue to influence retail pricing.

With mounting public frustration, the government is calling on traders to act responsibly and lower their prices accordingly. This move aims to ease the economic burden on Nigerians, particularly those struggling with the high cost of living.